Apartments Near Salem State University
Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Salem, MA — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Average 1BR Rent
$2,700/mo
Best Neighborhoods
Salem Heights · Midtown
Walk to Campus
5–20 min walk
Housing Near Salem State University: What to Expect
Salem State University enrolls 4,286 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Salem, MA. Most students move off-campus after their first or second year either to save money or gain more independence.
Rent near campus ranges from $2,200/mo for a studio to $3,750/mo for a 2-bedroom — with 3 and 4-bedroom shared units often bringing individual rent down to $1550–$2350/person/mo.
The area is one of the more expensive student housing markets in the country. Planning ahead and securing roommates early is key.
Apartment Listings Near Salem State University
Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Salem, MA.
Pinnacle Place
Best ValueFull-service building with co-working spaces, a coffee lounge, and a private shuttle.
$1,861–$2,150/mo
Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus
Scholar Residences
Most PopularSpacious layouts with in-unit laundry and a resident study lounge — popular with upperclassmen.
$2,408–$2,750/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus
Heritage Place
Quiet residential complex with off-street parking, covered bike storage, and a community garden.
$3,479–$4,000/mo
2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus
Grove Commons
Newly built riverfront complex with floor-to-ceiling windows and kayak storage.
$3,954–$4,550/mo
3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus
Collegiate Lofts
Urban living with walkable access to restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores.
$2,257–$2,600/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus
Grove Park
New BuildingWell-maintained mid-rise with 24/7 security, a fitness center, and direct bus access to campus.
$3,444–$3,950/mo
2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus
Park Flats
Affordable and social — a favorite for first-year off-campus students with a rooftop common area.
$3,837–$4,400/mo
4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus
Best Areas to Live Near Salem State University
Salem Heights
The closest neighborhood to Salem State University's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.
Midtown
A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.
Downtown
Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.
College Hill
Downtown location with walkable access to the transit hub, employers, and city amenities — best for students with internships or part-time jobs.
Cost of Living Near Salem State University
Student Housing Tips
Start Early
The best apartments near campus get leased 6–9 months before move-in. If you want August housing, start searching in January–February.
Read the Lease
Check: who pays utilities, guest policies, subletting rules, and what happens if a roommate leaves. Never sign anything you haven't fully read.
Choose Roommates Carefully
Split a 3–4 bedroom and each person's share drops by 30–40%. Use a roommate agreement to align on noise, guests, cleanliness, and bills.